MOGADISHU (KAAB TV) – In a pivotal step toward reinforcing peace and stability in Somalia, the Deputy Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission for Somalia, Ambassador Moukhtar Osman Kaire, convened a high-level meeting in Mogadishu with a senior delegation from the European Union (EU), led by the EU Ambassador to Somalia, Francesca Di Mauro.
The meeting focused on the evolving dynamics of peace support in Somalia, with a particular emphasis on enhancing the operations and sustainability of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), soon transitioning into the African Union Somalia Support Mission (AUSSOM).
Discussions also delved into the broader security landscape of the country and the critical role of international partners in supporting Somalia’s post-conflict reconstruction and peacebuilding efforts.
Ambassador Kaire delivered a comprehensive briefing on the current financial constraints facing AUSSOM. He noted that budgetary reductions have had a tangible impact on the effectiveness of the mission, particularly across its military, police, and civilian components.
These cuts, he explained, have limited the operational capacity of peacekeepers at a time when Somalia continues to face serious threats from armed groups such as Al-Shabaab.
Despite these challenges, Ambassador Kaire highlighted recent progress made by AU forces in their counter-insurgency operations.
He emphasized that collaborative efforts between the African Union Mission and Somali security forces have led to the successful liberation of several strategic locations from militant control, strengthening hopes for long-term stability.
A significant portion of the discussion centered around the future deployment of AU troops, specifically addressing the extension of the mandate of Burundian peacekeepers currently serving in Somalia.
Both sides also reviewed the potential transition and rotation of these forces with incoming contingents from other AU member states, particularly Egyptian troops who are preparing for deployment.
Additionally, the meeting underscored a mutual commitment to a phased and strategic transformation of the AUSSOM mission.
This transformation aims to move beyond a solely military-focused approach and promote a more holistic peace support framework that includes policing and civilian stabilization efforts.
This multi-dimensional approach is intended to foster sustainable peacebuilding and institutional development in Somalia, in line with the Somali government’s long-term security transition plans.
The high-level talks were attended by senior African Union officials, including AUSSOM Force Commander, Lt. General Sam Kavuma, and AUSSOM Police Commissioner, Hillary Sao Kanu.
Both commanders provided detailed operational updates and shared insights into the progress, performance, and ongoing challenges of AU forces on the ground.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the EU’s support for the AU’s peacebuilding agenda in Somalia.
Ambassador Di Mauro reiterated the European Union’s long-standing partnership with the African Union and its readiness to continue supporting Somalia’s path toward lasting peace and stability through both financial contributions and strategic cooperation.
This diplomatic engagement marks a significant milestone in international efforts to bolster Somalia’s security architecture and ensure that gains made in recent years are consolidated through coordinated, sustainable, and inclusive peacebuilding strategies.